dependence

noun

de·​pen·​dence di-ˈpen-dən(t)s How to pronounce dependence (audio)
variants or less commonly dependance
1
: the quality or state of being dependent
especially : the quality or state of being influenced or determined by or subject to another
2
3
: one that is relied on
4
a
: drug addiction
developed a dependence on painkillers

Examples of dependence in a Sentence

The company was hurt by its dependence on government loans. Our dependence upon foreign oil makes our economy vulnerable. a harmful dependence on foreign oil
Recent Examples on the Web Additionally, the government has increased support for nuclear energy to reduce dependence on fossil fuels. Trilce Estrada Olvera, The Arizona Republic, 5 Mar. 2024 The heavy Ukrainian reliance on the United States for weapons has underscored Europe’s ongoing dependence on Washington as the 75th anniversary of NATO approaches this year. Roger Cohen, New York Times, 28 Feb. 2024 The pharmaceutical sector is an obvious priority, given that the United States and its allies have a strong interest in reducing their current dependence on China for key products. Peter E. Harrell, Foreign Affairs, 26 Feb. 2024 German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock spelled out Europe’s dependence on the alliance during an interview with NBC News at the Munich Security Conference. Alexander Smith, NBC News, 23 Feb. 2024 That shortage cost the U.S. economy $240 billion, according to experts, awakening lawmakers and industries to the country's almost total dependence on foreign manufacturers for such a crucial component. CBS News, 19 Feb. 2024 Economic Diversification: Reducing dependence on oil and gas and diversifying the state’s economy to promote growth in other sectors is a challenge. Eleanor Dearman, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 15 Feb. 2024 European countries must also work to reduce their dependence on Chinese telecommunications products to prepare for a tougher line from the White House. Arancha González Laya, Foreign Affairs, 2 Feb. 2024 In addition to causing dependence and addiction, opioids can also come with side effects like nausea, vomiting, constipation, drowsiness, and even death due to respiratory depression. Claire Bugos, Verywell Health, 2 Feb. 2024

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'dependence.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of dependence was in the 15th century

Dictionary Entries Near dependence

Cite this Entry

“Dependence.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/dependence. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

dependence

noun
de·​pend·​ence
di-ˈpen-dən(t)s
1
: the quality or state of being dependent
especially : the quality or state of being influenced by or subject to another
2
3
: something on which one relies
4
: a drug addiction

Medical Definition

dependence

noun
de·​pen·​dence di-ˈpen-dən(t)s How to pronounce dependence (audio)
1
: the quality or state of being dependent upon or unduly subject to the influence of another
2
a
: drug addiction

More from Merriam-Webster on dependence

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